Alan Shearer makes big Isak claim, talks Howe, Europe and Newcastle masterclass

Alan Shearer believes a fully fit Alexander Isak is one of the best players in the Premier League and believes it will be an “incredible season” for Eddie Howe and Newcastle if we can secure a Europa League finish.

Our former number has hailed the job Howe has done in light of all the injuries and feels he “schooled” Ange Postecoglou in Saturday’s 4-0 win over Spurs, praising our tactical switch, pressing and man-to-man approach.

Speaking alongside Gary Lineker and Micah Richards on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer said: “Talk about tactical masterclasses, Eddie schooled Ange! No doubt about it. Three at the back, changed the system, went man to man, pressed them high and Spurs couldn’t handle it.

Shearer than discussed Alexander Isak, saying: “If you get him on the pitch and you have him fit, he’s as good as there is in the Premier League. No doubt about that. His feet are so quick, he’s a really good finisher, as quick as there is and he’s a clever, clever footballer.

Asked by Lineker about Eddie Howe and our push for the Europa League, he said: “He’s doing a brilliant job. If you look at the injury list that Newcastle had before the game, it is arguable that you could have put a better team out than maybe the starting line-up that was put out against Tottenham. So, that just tells you how good of a job that he’s doing.

“The last couple of results have been superb and they have a decent run-in, if they can get into a Europa League spot – which they have every chance of doing now, – then it would still be an incredible season because of everything that has been thrown at them.”

Shearer is bang on. Our injured XI is arguably stronger than the side that started on Saturday, yet we are coming into form at the perfect time and have every chance of ending the season in sixth, which would be an unbelievable achievement given the issues faced.